6 Scenic Beauties to Witness in the Monsoon in India
Enjoy the rain dance.
Exotic destinations to get drenched and have fun.
The Indian monsoon typically begins in June in Kerala and travels up country. Bringing much needed respite from the scorching summer, the rains are a source of joy for the farming community. Avid travellers relish following the monsoon. Pure rainwater brings out the earth’s aroma, quenches the thirst of the barren land and brings land to life! As the skies open up, the water bodies get filled and the landscape turns green. Yes, it’s the rainy season – time to get wet and have fun. We at Chaloindia.com have curated six scenic locations to enjoy during the monsoon. Go ahead, have a happy holiday and create some unforgettable memories. Follow safety precautions while venturing nearing water falls. Carry rain protection and be careful while driving in the rain. Expect leeches, keep salt, first aid kit and general medicines handy.
Wayanad, Kerala
A hill station in God’s Own Country, Wayanad is nestled in the mountainous region of the Western Ghats. Adjoining the wildlife sanctuaries of Mudumalai in Tamil Nadu and Bandipur in Karnataka, Wayanad is an enchanting natural paradise. Annual rainfall ranges from 3000 to 4000 mm. It is home to a vast variety of wild life and tribal population. Adventure activities include cave exploration, bamboo rafting, trekking, hill climbing etc. You can enjoy your stay on treetop houses and in resorts.
Connections: Nearest airport: Kozhikode (85 km) Nearest railway station: Kozhikode. Well-connected by road to National Highway 17.
Coorg, Karnataka
An attractive hill station, Coorg is known as ‘the Scotland of India.’ Dotted with waterfalls, a visit during the rainy season is indeed enchanting. With an average rainfall of 2500 to 3500 mm, it promises to be an exciting monsoon destination. Enjoy the scenic views, sprawling coffee plantations and the freshness of nature. Adventure activities include mountain trekking and white-water rafting.
Connections: Nearest airport: Mangaluru (160 km), Mysuru (110 km.) Nearest railway station: Mysuru (110 km.) Well-connected by road.
Goa
Located on Konkan coast, a Goan holiday in the rain can be truly mesmerising. With the beaches less crowded, you can have a gala time in the rain. Goa receives an average rainfall of 3000 mm. The weather changes unpredictably during the rainy season. The Goan landscape gets an attractive look during the monsoon. For the adventurous, river rafting on the Mandovi River is a thrilling experience
Connections: Well-connected through air, rail and road to all major destinations.
Lonavala
A beautiful hill station in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats, Lonavala is a popular weekend getaway from Mumbai and Pune. It also draws visitors from far and wide. Receiving around 1800 mm of rainfall annually, the lakes and dams get filled to the brim. Enjoy the scenery and admire nature in a cool and refreshing weather. The adventurous can go for trekking and explore the caves nearby.
Connections: Pune (65 km) and Mumbai (80 km) are the nearest travel hubs.
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
A wettest place on Earth, Cherrapunji records the highest rainfall in India each year. True to the name of the state – Meghalaya, Megha (clouds) Alaya (abode) Cherrapunji receives around 11000 mm of rain in a year. The region is also abundant with waterfalls, hills, valleys, caves, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. The living root bridges are fascinating.
Connections: Nearest airport: Guwahati (170 km), Nearest railway station: Guwahati (150 km.) Well-connected by road.
Agumbe – the “Cherrapunji of South India”, Karnataka
Located amidst verdant forests in the Western Ghats, Agumbe receives an average rainfall of about 8000 mm. Navigating the winding road and its sharp hairpin bends is indeed an exciting experience. Enjoy the scenic beauty of rainforests, waterfalls and the sunset. Go on treks and discover rare species of reptiles and insects in their natural surroundings.
Connections: Nearest airport: Mangaluru (100 km), Nearest railway station: Mangaluru & Shivamogga (110 km.) Well-connected by road.
